BY AARON STELLA A former mechanics garage transformed into a bowler’s pipedream, Northern Liberties’ very own North Bowl provides a hang out space unlike any other. Instead of drab, commercially carpeted walls, greasy fast foods and dingy lounging areas typical of bowling rinks of old, North Bowl has stylish art deco decor married with sculptural bars of the 50’s, gastropub quality chow and clean, pristine arcades, billiards and mezzanine sitting areas overlooking lustrous lanes. Not to mention the pixilated snapshots from “The Big Lebowski”, which adorn North Bowl’s walls. Awesome. Instead of paying per game, you pay by the hour, a nuance that allows you to play as much as you like within your allotted time. And you won’t have to trouble yourself walking back and forth between yonder bar to get libations and vittles, North Bowl’s friendly waiter staff will transport all desired victuals, which are available in a sumptuous array. Warm up items include spicy chicken quesadillas and tater tots paired with choice pizza toppings, mainstays like juicy burgers and veggie corn dogs, and gourmet fare like salmon sandwiches, miso soup, and herbed chicken skewers (funnel cake and cinnamon ice cream sandwiches for desert). To be sure, the food could stand on it’s own. As traffic goes, calling ahead to check lane availability is wise, especially during the weekends, but the staff can usually provide fairly accurate predictions, so you can plan your night accordingly. North Bowl is perfect for special occasions, or just a fun night out in Philadelphia with family and friends.